Understanding Demerit Points in Ontario: A Guide by Summit Paralegal Services
If you've ever received a traffic ticket or been involved in a driving infraction in Ontario, you may have heard of demerit points. But do you know how they work, how they can impact your driving record, and what to do if you've accumulated too many? At Summit Paralegal Services, we’re here to provide a clear understanding of demerit points and how we can assist you with any legal issues related to them.
What Are Demerit Points?
Demerit points are a penalty system used by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) to monitor and track the driving behaviour of licensed drivers. When you commit certain driving violations, points are added to your driving record. These points accumulate based on the severity of the offence, and the more serious the violation, the higher the number of points you’ll receive.
For example, a minor infraction, like failing to signal, might result in 2 demerit points, while more severe infractions, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or speeding excessively, could result in 6 demerit points or more.
The Impact of Demerit Points on Your Driving Record
Demerit points stay on your record for a period of two years from the date of the offence. While accumulating points doesn’t automatically mean your license will be suspended, too many points can trigger a review of your driving record. Here's how it works:
6 Points: Drivers with 6 or more demerit points may be required to complete a driver improvement course.
9 Points: If you accumulate 9 demerit points, the MTO will send you a warning letter advising you that you could face suspension if you don’t reduce your points.
12 or More Points: If you accumulate 12 or more demerit points, your driver’s license can be suspended, and you may face additional consequences, including fines, higher insurance premiums, or even a permanent mark on your record.
For novice drivers (those with a G1, G2, M1, or M2 license), the threshold for suspension is even lower – just 6 demerit points.
How to Reduce Demerit Points
While you cannot remove demerit points from your driving record once they are accumulated, they do naturally expire after two years. However, there are a few ways to manage and reduce the impact of demerit points in Ontario:
Taking a Defensive Driving Course: If you’re eligible, completing an approved defensive driving course can reduce up to 3 demerit points from your record.
Paying Fines and Appealing Tickets: Sometimes, fighting a ticket or negotiating the terms can result in fewer demerit points being assigned. At Summit Paralegal Services, we help our clients navigate this process.
What to Do if You Accumulate Too Many Demerit Points
If you find yourself accumulating too many demerit points, don’t panic. You have options. At Summit Paralegal Services, we offer expert paralegal services to assist with your case. We can help you explore your legal options, potentially contest tickets, or help you avoid license suspension.
Legal Advice: Our team of licensed paralegals can review your case, assess the severity of the offences, and provide you with sound legal advice on how to proceed.
Representation: If you’ve been accused of a traffic violation, we can represent you in court and attempt to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
Driver Improvement Programs: We can assist in helping you take defensive driving courses or find alternatives to minimize the impact on your driving record.
Why Choose Summit Paralegal Services?
At Summit Paralegal Services, we understand how overwhelming traffic violations and demerit points can be. That’s why we offer personalized, professional services to guide you through the process and help you maintain your driving privileges. Whether you're facing a simple speeding ticket or have accumulated points that put your license at risk, we’re here to help.
Our team is dedicated to providing you with the best legal representation, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you understand your options at every step.
Contact Summit Paralegal Services Today
If you’ve accumulated demerit points or need assistance with a traffic-related matter, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Summit Paralegal Services. We offer free consultations, and we’re ready to help you navigate the complexities of Ontario’s traffic laws.
Let us help you stay on the road safely and with peace of mind.